Organoids: Miniature Multicellular Tissue Constructs

This lecture explores the concept of organoids, which are miniature in vitro constructs mimicking the architecture, cell composition, and function of living tissues. It covers the derivation methods, applications in basic biology, disease modeling, drug discovery, and regenerative medicine. The lecture delves into the origins of organoids, different cell/tissue culture approaches, stem cell-based morphogenesis, and the main features of organoids. It also discusses the bridging role of organoids between in vitro and in vivo models, comparing them with traditional in vitro systems. Furthermore, it highlights the use of organoids in modeling genetic diseases, host-pathogen interactions, and cancer, showcasing their potential in disease modeling, drug discovery, and personalized medicine.